Rory McIlroy hilariously shut down a fan who was singing his praises during a practice round at St. Andrews this week. The Northern Irishman took his opportunity to dish out some fighting talk ahead of next year's Ryder Cup, where Team Europe will seek to retain their title on American soil.
McIlroy was watched by a crowd of spectators during 18 holes at St. Andrews' historic old course. On the final hole, one American fan, who appeared to have sunk one too many, loudly tried to get the golfer's attention.
He shouted: "Rory! Nobody better! New York loves you! The Bronx, baby, the Bronx! The Bronx in the house!"
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Referencing the 2025 Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black - one of New York's finest golf clubs - McIlroy cupped his hands around his mouth and shouted back: "You're not gonna love us next year!"
Team Europe have won eight of the last 11 Ryder Cups, including two in America since the turn of the century. Last time out, at Marco Simone in Italy, McIlroy was imperious as the Europeans stormed to a convincing 16.5-11.5 victory.
The 35-year-old's next challenge lies at the Paris Olympics, where the men's tournament kicks off at Le Golf National on Thursday. McIlroy has explained his decision to represent Ireland instead of Team GB at the Games.
Rory McIlroy getting in round on the Old Course. Love his response to over served American. #RoryMcllroy #oldcourse #standrews #yourenotgonnaloveusnextyear pic.twitter.com/JwpRjMN5DW
— The Secret of St. Andrews Podcast (@standrews_1759) July 29, 2024
"As I said, previously, once I left trying not to upset anyone aside, then it was actually a pretty easy decision," he said. "The decision was: I’m going to play golf for the country or the nation that I’ve always played for through my junior and amateur days and now into the professional game. And that’s Ireland."
The four-time major winner will hope to do his nation proud with an improved performance after missing the cut at The Open earlier this month. McIlroy posted +11 for his worst two-round score at a major in over a decade, before American Xander Schauffele went on to win the event at Royal Troon.
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"I think once I made the eight on the fourth hole, that was it," McIlroy admitted after crashing out. "22 holes into the event and I'm thinking about where I'm going to go on vacation next week.
"Yeah, that was basically it. I mean, I knew from then I'd sort of resigned myself to the fact that I wasn't going to shoot four or five-under-par."
